Monstera aerial roots: to cut or not to cut?

Every Monstera produces aerial roots as well as leaves. Many plant lovers don’t like aerial roots. But can you cut the aerial roots without damaging the plant?

The Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera preciosa) is a star among houseplants because of its large, decorative, veined leaves. The plant is native to the tropics and grows on the trunks of large trees up to 30 metres high. The aerial roots are also part of the Monstera’s typical appearance. Some people find them unattractive and want to cut them off. But will cutting off the aerial roots damage the foliage or not?

Why does Monstera have aerial roots?

The aerial roots of Monstera have an important function. They act as a **support or climbing aid** for the plant. In its tropical home, Monstera plants grow up to 30 metres high on trees, to which they cling with the help of the aerial roots. The aerial roots also act as a support to help the plants reach the trunks.

The aerial roots are also used to feed the Monstera. If the roots cannot feed the plant sufficiently, it will grow long aerial roots which will reach down to the ground, take root and provide the Monstera with extra water and nutrients. The aerial roots therefore have an important function in supporting and supplying the plant.

Should I cut the air roots of Monstera or not?

As the aerial roots of Monstera have an important function, they should not be cut. Exceptions can be made if the aerial roots threaten to squeeze under the foliage or become a tripping hazard.

Cut the aerial root directly at the stem with a sharp, disinfected knife. It is advisable to wear gloves as the sap can cause skin irritation.

Instead of cutting the aerial roots, you can redirect them and stick the aerial roots into the plant pot. They will quickly take root.

You can use the fact that the aerial roots grow (real) roots in the soil to your advantage when propagating the Monstera. Cut a cutting with an aerial root and insert it into the substrate when planting the cutting.

What to do if the Monstera produces a lot of aerial roots?

If a Monstera has a lot of aerial roots, this is a sign that the plant is lacking in nutrients or support. Your Monstera may need a larger pot and needs to be repotted, or you may have forgotten to feed it regularly. When repotting, make sure you stick the aerial roots into the soil.

If the leaf has outgrown its climbing aid, you should provide it with a larger climbing aid.

Monstera: putting the aerial roots in water

Although the aerial roots are not in the soil, they can still absorb nutrients. If you are going on holiday, you can take advantage of this by putting the aerial roots in a container of water.